Methods of Attenuating Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent indications for liver transplantation. However, the transplantation is ultimately associated with the occurrence of ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). It affects not only the function of the graft but also significantly worsens the oncological results. Various methods have been used so far to manage IRI. These include the non-invasive approach (pharmacotherapy) and more advanced options encompassing various types of liver conditioning and machine perfusion. Strategies aimed at shortening ischemic times and better organ allocation pathways are still under development as well. This article presents the mechanisms responsible for IRI, its impact on treatment outcomes, and strategies to mitigate it. An extensive review of the relevant literature using MEDLINE (PubMed) and Scopus databases until September 2020 was conducted. Only full-text articles written in English were included. The following search terms were used: ischemia reperfusion injury, liver transplantation, hepatocellular carcinoma, preconditioning, machine perfusion.

Automated summary

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common indication for liver transplantation, but ischemia-reperfusion injury during the process can impact graft function and oncological outcomes. Strategies to manage IRI include pharmacotherapy, liver preconditioning, and machine perfusion. Efforts to shorten ischemic times and improve organ allocation pathways are still under development.